How is MS Treated?

There are many multiple sclerosis treatments that can alter the course of your disease. There is a group of medications referred to as "immuno-modulating agents" or "IMAs" also commonly referred to as the "ABCs" of multiple sclerosis treatments. These drugs include Avonex®, Betaseron® and Copaxone®.

In the event that a patient has not responded to or is no longer responding to the IMAs, other therapies such as IVIG or Mitoxantrone may be used alone or in combination with IMAs. The introduction of these secondary multiple sclerosis treatments are often associated with long periods of clinical remission.

Several European studies published have confirmed the benefits of IVIG therapy in those patients with clinically definite relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (defined by Poser, et al in 1983). These studies demonstrated a reduction in the acute relapse rate and the number of contrast-enhanced lesions on monthly MRI scans. Most importantly, the patients receiving multiple sclerosis treatments in the form of IVIG therapy spent significantly more time in an improved or stable neurological state as compared to the placebo groups, suggesting a better quality of life for the IVIG patients during remission.

It is important to remember that through combinations of these multiple sclerosis treatments, patients have been able to achieve long periods of remission that may last for years.

What Causes a Multiple Sclerosis Diagnosis?

It is important to note, that despite MS first being clinically identified in the mid-1800s, its cause remains unclear. The following are some suspected causes of a multiple sclerosis diagnosis:

Autoimmune Disorder - Considerable research has focused on the possibility that MS is a disease related to an impairment of the body's immune system. In autoimmune diseases, the immune system reacts against the patient's own body rather than performing its normal protective role against illness.

Genetic Factors - The clinical observation that a multiple sclerosis diagnosis sometimes occurs in families has served as a basis that there may be a genetic predisposition. In those cases thought to be genetically transmitted, there is a yet to be an identified complex set of genetic factors that may help to determine who may be genetically susceptible to developing MS.

Environmental Trigger - Scientific evidence suggests that the environment plays a role in the cause of a multiple sclerosis diagnosis. Epidemiologic studies have shown that people born in areas with a high prevalence of MS are at a greater risk of developing the disease. Exposure to environmental agents such as bacteria and viruses may also be a causative factor. There is also a higher incidence of MS in colder climates.

Jerry Moore, RPh

"I wanted to send a note of thanks to those in the Fort Worth offices who were a part of the MS Walk. I received a framed photo from this office with a note stating, "We walked for you!"

I was blown away. I do not any of the people and have been helped by each of them! I came home from my monthly infusion which makes for a very tough day. I found a package on my doorstep from people I have never met who cared enough to give up their weekend to help me. I was filled with joy and brought to tears!

Thank you so much for walking to help me and others who suffer with MS daily. This means the world to me and I want you all to know that I smile whenever I see the picture. Thanks again!"

-S.M., Dallas, TX

For more information on multiple sclerosis treatments, please visit our Home Infusion FAQs or contact us at 1-800-746-9089. Press zero to speak to an AOM staff member 9am-5pm, Monday through Friday. We will be happy to answer all of your questions about AOM and our multiple sclerosis treatments.

If you are a physician and would like to refer a patient to AOM for multiple sclerosis treatment, please contact us at 1-800-746-9089.